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Nutritional Benefits of Chestnuts

Chestnuts are starchy, sweet, edible nuts that can be eaten as fruits or processed to produce various products such as Italian chestnut flour and honey. They have known for their impressive nutritional value and people want to gain their benefits to health. Here are the promising nutritional benefits of chestnuts:

Chestnuts Have Starch

Chestnuts have starch as their main component. They are abundant in protein, calorie, and fat when compared to other types of tree seeds and nuts. Their nutrition compositions can be compared to staple starch foods like sweet corn, plantain, potatoes, and sweet potatoes. Chestnuts are great sources of vitamins, minerals, and proteins.

They are Fibrous

Chestnuts are good sources of dietary fiber, offering 8.1 grams per 100 grams. A diet with fiber will lower the level of cholesterol in the blood by limiting the excess absorption of cholesterol in the intestines.

They are Rich in Folates

Just like green leafy vegetables, chestnuts are rich in folates. This feature is rare for seeds and nuts. Folic acid is vital for red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. Consuming an adequate amount of food that is rich in folates during conception will help in preventing the newborn from developing neural tube defects.

They Contain Mono-Unsaturated Fatty Acids

 These fatty acids include palmitoleic acids and oleic acid. According to studies, these fatty acids help in lowering total and bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol levels in the blood. People who adopt a Mediterranean diet enjoy enough amounts of dietary fiber, mono-unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids necessary to help in preventing coronary artery disease and strokes.

They are Great Mineral Sources

Minerals like calcium, iron, zinc, calcium, and phosphorus are present in chestnuts. Also, chestnuts have a good amount of potassium which helps in countering sodium’s hypertensive action as well as lowering blood pressure levels and heart rate. Also, iron found in chestnuts helps prevent microcytic anemia. Phosphorus and magnesium are important for bone metabolism. Calcium has been known for its ability to build and maintain strong bones while zinc actively participates in functions and body reactions such as immune system function, as well as, protein and DNA synthesis, and wound healing.

They are Free of Gluten

As with almonds and hazelnuts, chestnuts are gluten-free food items. This is the reason chestnuts are a famous ingredient in preparing gluten-free food formulas meant for use by patients who are gluten-sensitive as well as those with a wheat allergy and celiac disease.

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